7-Year-Old Sorrento Sensation Tops U.S. Motocross Rankings as a “Little Warrior”

Julien Almaguer, a spirited 7-year-old from Sorrento, Arizona, embodies the passion of a young motocross enthusiast. With a vibrant pink Vans hat perched on his head, he exudes enthusiasm while discussing his favorite pastime: dirt biking. Julien’s journey began at the tender age of four, inspired by his father, Richie Almaguer, who has been riding since he was 10.

Richie noted, “I enjoyed it as a kid, and I was hoping he would too. He loves riding and racing.” When asked about his favorite aspects of motocross, Julien, with the excitement characteristic of youth, said, “I like being fast, winning, and getting trophies.” He gleefully recounted the thrill of winning a towering trophy last March, claiming it after three consecutive first-place finishes in local races.

Julien trains 10 to 15 hours weekly, a commitment his father believes has accelerated his growth both physically and mentally. “He’s matured significantly; he can achieve anything he sets his mind to,” Richie remarked. The Almaguer family often rides together in the nearby desert, where Julien appreciates the sandy and rocky terrain, which presents unique challenges for his skills.

Coached by former professional motocross rider Pat McMullen, Julien practices techniques aimed at enhancing his control on the bike. McMullen stated, “His progress has been enormous. He’s a little warrior, always eager to improve.” With McMullen’s experience, Julien receives comprehensive guidance in bike control fundamentals, essential for success in racing.

As of 2025, Julien ranks No. 1 in the 51cc division for his age group, having raced across the U.S. in venues spanning Texas, California, Nevada, and Oklahoma. His first international appearance—a challenging Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National Motocross—saw him finishing 12th out of 43, an impressive feat considering the muddy and difficult conditions he faced.

Balancing racing with school demands has required significant effort from Julien’s family. His mother, Mireya Almaguer, shared the challenges of scheduling and ensuring Julien’s bikes are well-prepared for competitions. “It can be tough coordinating everything, especially with fewer local tracks available in Arizona,” she noted.

The support system for Julien is robust, involving his entire family. Mireya elaborated on how Richie’s parents frequently come to watch and assist, turning competition days into family events. Julien’s sisters also play roles in helping him gear up and maintain his bike, fostering a tight-knit support network.

Richie feels a deep emotional connection during races, stating, “My heart beats as fast as his. It’s a shared experience.” He provides Julien with constructive feedback post-race, guiding him in building trust in his skills. Julien expressed gratitude for his family’s unwavering support, especially during races.

Looking ahead, Julien is set to transition to a new competitive class with a larger 65cc bike for 7- and 8-year-olds. “We’ve been training on this bike, so he’s ahead of the curve,” McMullen remarked, although Richie acknowledged the increased complexity that comes with the change. Julien is excited about mastering his new ride.

As Julien continues to pursue motocross, financial considerations loom. Operating up to 25 bikes throughout his career could present a hefty bill. Yet, his supportive parents remain committed to his aspirations, encouraging him to face challenges with courage and pride. “If he wants to reach the podium, he can achieve that; it’s in his hands,” Mireya asserted.

For now, Julien has a clear goal: “I want to be a professional motocross rider.” With determination and family backing him, his journey in the sport is just beginning.

The History of Motocross

Motocross originated in the early 1900s in the United Kingdom, evolving from time trials into organized off-road races known as “scrambles.” The first official event took place in 1924, involving 80 riders on a challenging 2.5-mile course. The sport gained popularity across Europe, and although it took time to establish in the U.S., the first American Motocross Championship was held in 1972. Today, organizations like the American Motorcyclist Association continue to promote motocross, acknowledging young talents like Julien, ranked No. 1 in his division.

Motocross has rapidly evolved, expanding its reach and increasing the number of American participants, marking a significant shift in the sport’s landscape.